Harsh chemical drain unclogging solutions can actually be abrasive enough to make your pipes leak after the clog is dissolved. Instead considering pouring a half bottle of white vinegar down your drain every three months to keep clogs from forming.

Culinary weblog Chow recommends pouring the half bottle down your drain, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then flush with hot water. The acid in the vinegar will help remove any clogs that are forming. This preventative maintenance routine is cheap (you get a bottle of generic white vinegar for a buck or two), environmentally-friendly, and makes use of one of the best household multitaskers. If you don't like the smell of vinegar you can follow the hot water down your garbage disposal with a quartered lemon, lime, or other small citrus fruit to give your drain a fresh scent.